2011 Ford Explorer

Future cars: 2010 and beyond.

What it is: A huge favorite in the 1990s, Explorer sales have, uh, cooled over the past few years. This latest Explorer ditches the body-on-frame platform and the V-8 for a V-6 and a lighter unibody structure based on the Ford Flex.

Why it’s important: Buyers have been shying away from body-on-frame SUVs for years. Ford’s only hope of growing Explorer sales is to change to a unibody platform.

Powertrain: Basic versions will get a 262-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. For those seeking more firepower, a twin-turbo version will be available with 355 horses.

*AccuPayment estimates payments under various scenarios for budgeting and informational purposes only. AccuPayment does not state credit or lease terms that are available from a creditor or lessor, and AccuPayment is not an offer or promotion of a credit or lease transaction.

*AccuPayment estimates payments under various scenarios for budgeting and informational purposes only. AccuPayment does not state credit or lease terms that are available from a creditor or lessor, and AccuPayment is not an offer or promotion of a credit or lease transaction.